Most People Think You Need a Giant Tent for Comfort…
Truth is, you can bring the fanciest tent to a soggy field and still wake up stiff and cold if you pick a rubbish sleeping surface. I’ve woken up shivering on cheap plastic blow-ups – and trust me, nothing ruins a Lake District trip like hungry midges and a deflated mattress at 2 am.
The good news? With the right airbed, you actually can sleep like a log under the stars. A comfy air mattress isn’t just nice to have; it’s the difference between dreading bedtime and actually recharging for another day outdoors.
Quick Picks: Best Airbeds for Camping at a Glance
Here’s what you actually want to see: a straight-up table sorting the best camp airbeds, who they suit, and what makes them stand out.
Coleman Extra Durable Double
Best For: Rough terrain & tall sleepers
Pump Type: Manual (pump not included)
Comfort Rating: Very good
Weight: 4.6 kg
Special Features: 40 air coils, puncture-resistant, double lock valve
Exped MegaMat Duo
Best For: Year-round comfort, winter camping
Pump Type: Self-inflating + mini pump
Comfort Rating: Excellent
Weight: Approx. 5.2 kg
Special Features: R-value 8+, foam core, ultra warm
King Koil Luxury Plush
Best For: Glamping & festivals
Pump Type: Built-in electric
Comfort Rating: Luxury-level
Weight: 7 kg
Special Features: Pillow top, fast inflation, hotel-style comfort
Active Era Luxury Airbed
Best For: All-round camping
Pump Type: Built-in electric + manual option
Comfort Rating: Great
Weight: 5.4 kg
Special Features: Raised pillow, 21 air coils, waterproof top
Intex Dura-Beam Standard
Best For: Budget camping
Pump Type: Built-in electric
Comfort Rating: Good
Weight: 10.1 kg
Special Features: Fiber-Tech support, fast inflation, soft top
What to Look for in a Camping Air Mattress
Most new campers think, “Any airbed will do.” It won’t. Here’s why – and what to watch for:
- Comfort & Support: Avoid thin, squeaky beds unless you love a numb hip. Side sleepers want at least 4 inches. Couples? Go as thick as you can.
- Insulation (R-Value): Cold ground will leech your warmth faster than you think, especially in spring or autumn. A higher R-value means you stay cosy instead of shivering at 3am.
- Ease of Inflation: If the wind’s howling and your hands are freezing, you’ll thank yourself for picking a pad with a self-inflating core or an electric pump.
- Portability: If you’re wild camping on foot, trim the weight. Car camping? Go big and comfy. Always check the packed size; you don’t want your airbed swallowing all the boot space.
- Durability & Repairs: Even expensive mattresses can puncture – brambles, rogue tent pegs, or your own boots will do it. Look for tough materials and always carry a patch kit. A solid warranty means the maker trusts their gear.
- Special Features: Built-in pillows, flocked tops, or a USB-recharge pump aren’t gimmicks if they mean you sleep better or set up faster in a howling gale.
Best Airbeds for Camping: Detailed Reviews
1. Coleman Extra Durable Double Airbed
If your idea of a campsite includes rocky patches, brambles, or a few rogue pinecones, this is the mattress to trust. The Coleman Extra Durable Double Airbed lives up to its name. made from puncture-resistant PVC and built with a double lock valve, it holds air like a dream and shrugs off scrapes that would deflate lesser beds.
It’s long enough for tall sleepers (up to 6ft5), raised nicely from the ground (great for insulation), and stays firm all night thanks to its 40 air coils. There’s no built-in pump, which is a bit of a faff, but once you pair it with a fast inflator like the Coleman 12V Quickpump, you’re golden.
I once took this to a rugged campsite near Snowdonia and was the only one who didn’t wake up grumpy from a flat bed. For sheer reliability and durability, it’s hard to beat.
2. Exped MegaMat Duo
This is the mattress I bring out when comfort matters more than packing light. The Exped MegaMat Duo is pure luxury: thick, warm, and quiet. With 10cm of foam-insulated comfort and an R-value over 8, it’s one of the warmest options you’ll find – and perfect for year-round use.
It self-inflates (just open the valve and wait), and the mini pump included lets you fine-tune firmness. It’s big enough for two, yet packs reasonably small given the size. I’ve used mine in everything from frosty spring mornings to wet Welsh hills, and it’s never let me down.
Yes, it’s pricey. But if you camp often, especially in colder months, this is worth every penny.
3. King Koil Luxury Plush Pillow Top
Planning a festival weekend or a car-camping trip with a little luxury? The King Koil Luxury Plush Air Mattress delivers the kind of comfort that makes you forget you’re even in a tent. With its built-in electric pump, you’re set up in under 2 minutes, and the pillow top feels more like a hotel bed than a camping mat.
Of course, this is not your go-to for wild camping – it’s heavy and requires a power source. But if you’re near your car and want to indulge, this is a brilliant choice. I used it once for a “posh” campsite trip and honestly, didn’t want to get up in the morning.
4. Active Era Luxury Air Mattress
The Active Era Luxury Air Mattress is one of the best value options for campers who want comfort and convenience. It has an integrated electric pump that inflates the mattress in under 90 seconds, plus a manual valve in case you're off-grid.
Its 21 structured air coils make the surface feel solid and supportive, while the built-in raised pillow adds some extra head comfort. While I would prefer a flat surface to use my own pillows, it’s not a dealbreaker.
You also get a handy repair kit in the box. It's waterproof, reasonably compact, and feels solid under you – a fantastic all-rounder.
How to Get the Best Night’s Sleep on a Camp Airbed?
I learned this the hard way: always test your mattress at home first, days before you set off. Pump it up, check for leaks, and practise deflating and rolling—you’ll thank yourself on site, especially if it’s raining and you’ve only got torchlight.
For chilly nights (even summer can be cold in the Peaks), layer a foam mat or old yoga mat under your airbed. Air alone insulates badly – a groundsheet and something foamy turn a freezing night into a warm one.
Always stash a repair kit in your bag: adhesive patches, valve spares, maybe even duct tape. A pointy bit of gorse or a rough tent floor will puncture any mattress if luck’s not with you.
Final Thoughts on Camp Airbeds
Don’t underestimate your sleeping setup. A good night’s sleep is the difference between waking ready for another ten-mile hike or driving home early, grumpy and sore.
The right camp airbed, matched to your trips and weather, is an absolute game-changer. Prep well, know your gear, and you’ll enjoy every camp night – rain, wind, midges, and the lot.
Got another great pick or a nightmare airbed story? Drop a comment or compare notes with other campers – because when it comes to kipping outdoors, we’ve all made a few mistakes. Don’t make those sleepless nights yours.
For more guides and honest kit advice, check out our full camping mattress guide and get set for easier, comfier camp nights – every single time.
FAQs
How is an air mattress deflated?
Most air mattresses come with a valve system that lets air out easily. If it has a built-in electric pump, there’s usually a deflate setting. Just flip the switch, and it does the work for you. For manual valves, open the cap and gently press or roll the mattress from the opposite end to push the air out.
Why doesn’t my air mattress stay inflated for long?
This is usually down to one of three things:
- A slow leak or puncture – even tiny holes can deflate the bed overnight.
- Temperature changes – cold air contracts, so it might seem like it’s deflating in the night.
- Valve not sealed properly – double-check that the valve is fully closed and locked.
If it’s happening consistently, it’s worth doing a leak test by spraying soapy water along the seams and valve – bubbles will show you where it’s escaping.
How is an air mattress repaired?
First, find the hole – soap water and patience help. Once located, clean and dry the area thoroughly. Then use a repair patch (many airbeds come with one) or a vinyl repair kit. Press the patch firmly onto the hole, hold for a few minutes, and let it cure fully (usually 4-12 hours). Avoid inflating the bed until the patch has properly bonded.
Can an air mattress be used as a permanent bed at home?
Technically, yes, but with caveats. Air mattresses aren’t designed for everyday use and may wear out faster, especially at the seams or pump. Comfort-wise, even the best models may not offer the same support as a proper mattress.
If you do use one long-term, opt for a high-end model with reinforced structure, and place it on a soft surface to protect the bottom.
